SNIPEF (Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers’ Federation) is the principal trade association for plumbing and heating businesses based in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

With over 750 members, ranging from sole traders to large-scale businesses, the organisation works with government and industry bodies to ensure best practice and professionalism, as well as ensuring representation on wider industry issues.

Their annual ‘Best Apprentice Plumber’ award honours the exceptional new talents who ensure the industry’s future is in safe hands.

It also recognises and rewards the achievements of the next generation of talent across the industry.

Ross (21) from Renfrew is now in his final year of his 4-year plumbing trade apprenticeship programme with Arc-Tech and Glasgow Clyde College (Cardonald Campus) having joined the business in August 2021.

He said: “I have really enjoyed my time as an apprentice with Arc-Tech. Every day is different, and it has been a great learning experience, but it hasn’t been easy - you have to put the hours in because if you don’t, you won’t gain the skills you need to become a professional.

“To win this award makes me very happy. I am really proud of my achievement, and it has given me a lot of confidence going into my final year and looking ahead to my future - I can’t wait to become a qualified tradesman!”

Arc-Tech (Scotland) was founded in 2016 and has undertaken an annual trade apprentice intake ever since, including four new starts this year.

Managing director, John Gallacher, said Ross’ achievement is a testament to his dedication, but also to the business’s wider commitment to youth employment.

He said: “I am extremely proud of Ross and everyone at Arc-Tech congratulates him on this wonderful achievement. This was no easy feat, but we knew he would do well as he has shown over the course of his programme that he has what it takes to become a qualified plumber.

“This win also highlights our commitment to young people. The Building Services sector and wider construction industry is in the midst of a skills shortage, so it is imperative that companies look towards the younger generation as they are the future.

“That is what we do at Arc-Tech. We will always provide a route to work as well as a strong platform for our people to learn and grow as we do. In that respect, it has been a privilege of mine and the Board of Directors to have witnessed so many young men and women embark on their professional careers with our business, and long that may continue.”

SNIPEF Training Services regional training officer, Emma Lavery, said Ross is a worthy winner, and has every faith in his continual successful progress on his Modern Apprenticeship.

She said: “Ross should be extremely proud of himself. He is a deserving winner of the SNIPEF Best Plumbing Apprentice of the Year award, nominated by Glasgow Clyde College for his ‘remarkable attitude’ towards his Modern Apprenticeship. I have no doubt that Ross will only continue to progress and do well in his modern apprenticeship! He should keep up the good work!”